The present invention discloses a process for the preparation of a hydroxymethylthiazole compound having formula 3: The process of the invention comprises reacting a halomethyl thiazole having the formula: ##STR1## with water, at an elevated temperature. Optionally, the reaction can be carried out in the presence of a base, such as sodium carbonate, which can react with any acid formed. In the process of the invention, X is a halogen atom; and R.sup.6 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, and halogen atoms. The invention also contemplates the preparation of acid addition salts of the hydroxymethylthiazole, compound 3.